Many coaches have the calling at a young age. Some fill a need and stick with it. That’s the story of Jan Ford, the varsity girls volleyball coach at Auburn. The Inglewood, California-native began coaching because her daughter’s middle school needed a volleyball coach. She has stuck with it for nine seasons, the past four as Auburn varsity coach. Here’s a little more about Jan:
Full-time Job:

Married with three children. All of my children graduated from Auburn High School. My sons played basketball and my daughter played volleyball.

College:

I graduated from Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

Q: What coach in your life had the biggest influence and why?

A: “Jim Dietz, the head coach at Lincoln Land Community College, has been a big influence. He has given me great advice and even speaks to our players when we go down to their team camp in the summer.”

Q: What is your favorite motivational quote and/or motivational song?

A: “My favorite motivation quote is “With God all things are possible.” My current favorite motivational song is “Rise Up” by Andra Day.”

Q: Where would your student-athletes most likely find you this summer?

A: “Spending time with my three grandchildren.”

Q: What is something your student-athletes would be surprised to learn about you?

A: “I enjoy playing tennis.”

Q: What is your favorite thing about Rockford and/or your favorite place in the area?

A: “The most rewarding thing about coaching is seeing a player excel and realize their full potential.”

Q: What is the most difficult challenge as a coach?

A: “There never seems to be enough time.”

Q: When was your proudest moment as a coach?

A: “At the end of the season in my first year as the varsity coach at Auburn parents told me that it was a pleasure seeing the team actually compete. I was proud that we were being recognized as a competitive team.”

Rockford Sports Coalition is a registered Illinois 501(c)3 non-profit, a separate and distinct entity from Rockford Public Schools. Rockford Sports Coalition's mission is to preserve, support and promote interscholastic athletic programs and facilities in Rockford's district 205 public schools. * Donations may be tax-deductible - consult your tax advisor.